ICE Arrests Over 650 Illegal Immigrants in West Virginia
Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has apprehended more than 650 undocumented individuals throughout West Virginia during a recent two-week operation. This initiative involved collaboration with local law enforcement agencies and, notably, occurred without any protests, as federal authorities reported.
According to a press release from ICE issued on Sunday, the operation took place between January 5 and January 19 and engaged 14 law enforcement partners, spanning federal, state, and local levels.
Enforcement teams targeted various locations including Charleston, Martinsburg, Beckley, Moorefield, Morgantown, and Huntington.
The arrests primarily consisted of individuals deemed a threat to public safety or national security, or simply classified as illegal immigrants by ICE.
Michael Rose, the Acting Director of ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations for Philadelphia, remarked, “This operation showcases the strong partnership between ICE and West Virginia law enforcement, enhancing public safety and the integrity of our immigration system.” He further noted that through training and support for local partners, they have improved the ability to identify, apprehend, and process undocumented individuals legally and professionally.
One notable arrest during this operation involved Sagar Singh, an Indian national apprehended on January 8. Singh was initially pulled over for failing to stop at a brake checkpoint, a requirement for commercial drivers in the state.
During the inspection, he faced multiple vehicle violation charges, including operating an unsafe commercial vehicle.
ICE mentioned that Singh had already been ordered removed from the United States.
Singh was among over 25 foreign nationals who were apprehended during this heightened enforcement wave.
Another individual arrested was Lin Yang, a Chinese national, who was previously convicted of child endangerment in Ohio. The operation also included arrests of various convicted criminals, including a child molester and a drug possessor.
The Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office played a role in the operation and commended the professionalism demonstrated by the investigators involved. Sheriff Tom Hansen expressed satisfaction with the collaborative efforts, emphasizing the importance of removing dangerous criminals from the community.
Hansen stated, “Working with such a talented group of agents made our decision to support this effort worthwhile. We are pleased to contribute to community safety through this program.”
